Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes-February 21,2005

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HOC) was called to order by Chair Sheree Wenger at 7:30 p.m. Commission members Sterling and Techter were present. Commission members Howes and Ruspi were absent. Mayor Oland and Council member Bennett were also present.

Ms. Sterling made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 17, 2005, meeting. Second by Mr. Techter. Motion approved.

Old Business

Chair Wenger opened the discussion on the disposition of two outbuildings on Town Hall property. She reported an evaluation of the structures had been conducted by Hank Handler, Oak Grove Restoration. Present during the inspection were Ms. Wenger, Ms. Sterling, Mr. Bennett and Mayor Oland. In the opinion of Mr. Handler the buildings have no significant architectural or historical value. Based on the consultation, and due to their deteriorating condition, the Mayor stated the Town will submit an application for demolition of both buildings to the HDC.

Ms. Wenger reported she had a discussion with Sidra Berman, the property owner of 7115 Brink Rd. Montgomery County has issued new permits for construction and the property owner expects to resume the project. Historic District Work Permits (HDWP) require all work to be completed within one year from date of approval. The property owner was informed HDWP 01-04 expires in April and an application for an extension would be required. A hearing is scheduled for the March 21, 2005, meeting.

Commission member Ruspi has corresponded some concerns regarding homeowner association rules and covenants and their relationship to HDC guidelines. Following discussion, the members agreed to seek clarification of these issues.

Commission members Ruspi, Sterling, Techter, and Wenger recently visited new home construction in Urbana, Gaithersburg, and Brookeville, The purpose of the trip was to observe new building construction in historic districts,

New construction in the historic district was discussed:

• Drawings should include the relationship of surrounding buildings and environment to the new structures

• New buildings should be sited at a distance not more than 5% out-of-line from the setback of existing adjacent buildings.

• Conceptual design stage should include a series of drawings focusing on mass, scale, placement and zoning constraints

New Business

Ms. Sterling motioned to change the wording regarding tax credits on the HDWP application. The application should read: Applicants may be eligible for historic preservation incentives or tax credits. Information available upon request. Second by Mr. Techter. Motion approved.

Mr. Techter moved to adjourn. Second by Ms. Sterling. Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:40 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary